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Prince's Drummer Reveals Celebrity Boundaries and Unique Bonds

4/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bobby Z., Prince's drummer from 1978 to 1986, said Prince was private and uncomfortable around celebrities unless he admired them, ahead of the 10th anniversary of his death on April 21, 2026.
He recalled Bruce Springsteen and Madonna were denied access to Prince's dressing room and had to use the band's toilet.
Despite boundaries, Prince had warm interactions with David Bowie, and Springsteen and Madonna publicly honored him afterward.

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Story summary

Bobby Z., Prince's drummer from 1978 to 1986, said Prince was private and uncomfortable around celebrities unless he admired them, ahead of the 10th anniversary of his death on April 21, 2026.
He recalled Bruce Springsteen and Madonna were denied access to Prince's dressing room and had to use the band's toilet.
Despite boundaries, Prince had warm interactions with David Bowie, and Springsteen and Madonna publicly honored him afterward.